Growing Watermelon in Nyamira
Soil suitability analysis based on Nyamira's nutrient profile
Nyamira County is a challenging environment for Watermelon (soil-match score 31/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 5.58 the soil is slightly acidic to near-neutral, below Watermelon's preferred 6–7.5 range; agricultural lime will lift pH and unlock phosphorus the crop cannot otherwise access. The main gap is phosphorus and potassium — measured at N 0.84 g/kg, P 11.6 mg/kg, K 148 mg/kg against this crop's medium/medium/medium demand — so the fertilizer plan below prioritises closing those deficits. Watermelon prefers sandy soils, while Nyamira is largely clay loam, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. At current prices (about KES 10/kg) and a typical 5,500 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Watermelon crop here can gross roughly KES 55,000 per acre.
Soil match analysis
| Nutrient | Nyamira soil | Watermelon needs | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 5.58 | 6–7.5 | Adjust |
| Nitrogen | 0.84 g/kg | min 0.8 g/kg | OK |
| Phosphorus | 11.6 mg/kg | min 12 mg/kg | Low |
| Potassium | 148 mg/kg | min 150 mg/kg | Low |
Top dressing guide
Recommended seed varieties
Economics
Fertilizer prices
Green = subsidized · (Commercial) per 50kg bag